The forecast allowed organisers to hold the Double Cones race, featuring a mass start off two lines on Pioneer Bay. This marked the opener of the 2026 Jeanneau Yachts presented by Mooloolaba Yacht Brokers and 74 Islands Airlie Beach Race Week (ABRW), showcasing a spectacular sight for all participants.
Ray Roberts’ Team Hollywood (NSW), a Botin 40, won IRC Division 1, finishing nearly 15 minutes ahead of Grant Pocklington’s Bakewell-White 40, Anarchy (NSW), while Kiwi Brian Petersen’s TP52, V5, took third place.
In Division 2, Paul Heyes’ Thompson 920, Road Runner (NSW), won by just over a minute against locals Kate Leeson/Garth Riley’s Adams 10, Wazza Red Boat, with Bruce McCraken’s Beneteau First 45, Ikon, securing third. Heyes remarked on their familiarity with the area, attributing their success to past experiences.
Joel Berg’s Extreme 40, Hooligan (Qld), claimed the fastest time in Multihull Division 0, edging out Paul Mitchell’s Ullman Sails by 23 seconds, with Mike Peberdys’ Irens Trimaran, Rare Groove (Qld), completing the podium.
Cut Snake (Qld), a Stealth 12.7 owned by Stuart Cox, topped Division 1, followed closely by Troy Forrest’s Grainger Raku 48, Mint, and Steven Humphris’ Stealth 13.2c, Stealth Mode (Qld). Cox credited their luck and a smooth race without mistakes.
Peter Hackett’s Corsair F28r, Intrigue (Qld), won Division 3, with Terry Archer’s Grainger 075, G’Nome, just shy of the lead. Darren Simmonds’ Trojan, a Corsair 28r, secured third.
In the Trailable & Sports Boat class, the Bethwaite 89er, Don’t Panic, was victorious in Division 1, with Jesse Frisch’s Kiss, a Sports 8 Xx, and John Rae/Gary Smith’s 79er, Vivace, following suit. Don’t Panic owners expressed their joy, especially with Julian Bethwaite aboard.
This morning, Principal Race Officer Kevin Wilson noted ideal racing conditions with an average of 15-18 knots, while the weather transitioned from overcast to sunny.
The regatta commenced with a 30 nautical mile course for Multihull Division 0 and 27 nautical miles for IRC Rating, PHS Racing, and Multihull Racing Divisions 1 and 2. The event featured a spectator vessel, Superflyer, complete with a band and cheer squad, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
Excitement is building ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, with discussions among sailors about the upcoming sailing competition in the Whitsundays, especially as Paralympic Sailing returns to the Games in 2032.
Weather permitting, racing continues tomorrow at 10am from Pioneer Bay.
For all information, including entries, head to: http://www.abrw.com.au
Follow the action on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/AirlieBeachRaceWeek
Di Pearson/ABRW media
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